Letran coach Aldin Ayo is the hottest coach in the college ranks at the moment after leading the Knights to an NCAA title in his first season in charge. Dante Peralta

JUST a day after La Salle announced the resignation of Juno Sauler, someone is in line for the Green Archers coaching job.

And he is not who you might think.

Letran champion coach Aldin Ayo has emerged as the likely choice among five coaches being considered for the La Salle job following the resignation of Sauler, sources told Spin.ph.

Ayo is just weeks removed from leading the Knights to a championship in his first season as coach, in the process ending the run of five successive championships of the San Beda Red Lions.

No wonder he has the inside track on the La Salle job over four other candidates being eyed by La Salle management and top patron Danding Cojuangco - the others being former La Sall coach Franz Pumaren, Junel Baculi, Siot Tanquingcen, Louie Alas and an American coach recommended by Ron Jacobs' pal Paul Howard.

A source said Pumaren is the choice among alumni while the rest were candidates eyed by Cojuangco.

Another source even took it a step further, saying Ayo and Cojuangco have already reached an agreement and the new coach will be presented in a press conference soon.

“Siya na ang pinangalanan (new La Salle coach)," said the source.

The only hindrance, according to the source, is the three years remaining in Ayo's contract with Letran, although he was quick to point out that the contract is likely between the coach and Letran backer Manny Pacquiao and not necessarily with the school.

Another source bared Ayo has personally met with Cojuangco, a known ally of Pacquiao.

The 38-year-old coach from Sorsogon has no direct link to Cojuangco, but the source bared the longtime basketball patron has been impressed with the fast-paced offensive system and lockdown defense Ayo put in place at Letran which he felt will be a perfect fit for a La Salle team lacking in size.

Spin.ph tried to contact the head of Letran's athletics department, Fr. Vic Calvo, but the official has not been taking calls.